Nagano: Snow Monkey and Zenkoji Temple Free Sake Taste Day Tour

Nagano, nestled in the Japanese Alps, offers a unique adventure for travelers. This day tour showcases the region’s natural and cultural wonders – from observing lively snow monkeys in their natural hot springs to exploring the historic Zenkoji Temple. Along the way, guests can enjoy free sake tastings, seeing the local traditions. With convenient transportation and comprehensive inclusions, this tour promises an unforgettable experience in one of Japan’s most picturesque destinations. What more could one ask for?

Key Points

• This tour offers a full-day excursion from Tokyo to explore the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park and Zenkoji Temple, with the addition of a free sake tasting.
• The tour includes private transportation, park tickets, and temple entrance fees, making it a hassle-free and comprehensive experience.
• The tour is accessible for wheelchair users and strollers, ensuring it is suitable for a wide range of travelers.
• Highlights of the tour include observing snow monkeys in hot springs, visiting the significant 7th-century Buddhist temple of Zenkoji, and tasting local sake.
• The tour is priced from $550 for up to 5 people, providing a cost-effective option for small groups.

Tour Overview

The Nagano: Snow Monkey and Zenkoji Temple Free Sake Taste Day Tour is a private, full-day excursion from Tokyo that allows visitors to explore the snow monkey park and the historic Zenkoji Temple.

Priced from $550 for up to 5 people, the tour includes private transportation, park tickets, and temple entrance fees.

Pickup is available from hotels or locations within Tokyo’s 23 wards, with a start time of 7:00 AM.

The tour is accessible for wheelchair users and those with strollers, and it has received 5-star reviews from past participants for its knowledgeable guide and well-planned itinerary.

Inclusions

The tour includes private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park tickets at 800 Japanese Yen per adult, and entrance fees for Zenkoji Temple at 500 Yen and Matsumoto Castle at 800 Yen per adult.

All taxes and fees are included in the tour price. This ensures a hassle-free experience for guests, allowing them to fully enjoy the cultural and natural wonders of Nagano without worrying about additional costs.

The tour’s inclusions cater to a range of needs, from comfortable transportation to access to key attractions.

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup points for this tour include hotels or locations within Tokyo’s 23 wards, such as Chuo, Chiyoda, Minato, Shibuya, and Shinjuku.

To coordinate pickup, guests should add Dozou Tours on WhatsApp. Guests should wait in the hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time.

Drivers will wait no longer than 60 minutes after the scheduled time. Delays may occur due to traffic.

The tour is accessible, with wheelchair, stroller, and infant seat options. This is a private tour, so only your group will participate.

Tour Experience

The tour begins at 07:00 AM, providing an early start to make the most of the day’s activities. The tour is accessible to a range of travelers, with wheelchair and stroller accessibility, as well as infant seats available. The group size is private, allowing for a personalized experience.

Feature	Details
Start Time	07:00 AM
Accessibility	Wheelchair, stroller, near public transportation, infant seats
Group Size	Private tour/activity, only your group
Duration	Full day
Highlights	Snow Monkey Park, Zenkoji Temple, Matsumoto Castle

The well-planned itinerary ensures visitors make the most of their time, with convenient transportation provided throughout the day.

Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park

Situated in the Jigokudani Monkey Park, the famous snow monkeys are the highlight of this tour.

These Japanese macaques are known for their unique behavior of soaking in the hot springs to keep warm during the cold winter months. Visitors can observe the monkeys’ social interactions and natural behaviors up close.

The park’s scenic landscapes, with snow-covered mountains in the background, provide a stunning backdrop for this unique wildlife experience. Guests will have the opportunity to explore the park and witness the snow monkeys’ remarkable adaptation to the harsh winter environment.

Zenkoji Temple

After visiting the snow monkeys, the tour continues on to the iconic Zenkoji Temple, one of the most significant Buddhist temples in Japan.

Visitors will explore the grand temple complex, which dates back to the 7th century. The highlight is the main hall, which houses a legendary Buddha statue said to be the first brought to Japan.

Guests can also see the "kokaido," the temple’s unique underground passage, and learn about its fascinating history and cultural significance.

With an entrance fee of 500 Yen included, this stop offers a deeper insight into Japan’s rich Buddhist heritage.

Matsumoto Castle

Matsumoto Castle, a stunning Japanese National Treasure, stands as one of the country’s most well-preserved historic castles.

Built in the 16th century, this iconic fortress boasts a distinctive black-and-white exterior and impressive five-story keep.

Visitors can explore the castle’s ornate interiors, admire its intricate architecture, and take in breathtaking views from the top.

The entrance fee of 800 Yen per adult provides access to the castle grounds and main keep.

Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a glimpse of traditional Japanese culture, Matsumoto Castle offers a captivating and unforgettable experience.

Additional Details

Travelers can conveniently arrange pickup from their hotels or locations within Tokyo’s 23 wards.

The tour starts at 7:00 AM, with wheelchair and stroller accessibility, as well as infant seats available.

It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate.

The cancellation policy allows free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

Booking flexibility is also offered, allowing you to reserve now and pay later to secure your spot.

Customer reviews highlight the knowledgeable and friendly guide, comfortable transportation, and well-planned itinerary, providing an enhanced cultural and historical experience at Snow Monkey Park and Zenkoji Temple.

Since You Asked

How Much Time Is Allocated for the Zenkoji Temple Visit?

The tour includes an entrance fee to Zenkoji Temple, but the itinerary doesn’t specify the duration of the visit. The overall tour experience focuses on visiting the Snow Monkey Park and other attractions in the Nagano region.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Snow Monkey Park?

There are no age restrictions for the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park. Visitors of all ages can enjoy observing the Japanese macaques in their natural habitat. The tour provides ticket entry to the park as part of the experience.

Can We Take Pictures Inside the Matsumoto Castle?

Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photos inside Matsumoto Castle. However, flash photography may be prohibited in some areas to preserve the historic structure. It’s best to check with the castle staff upon arrival for any specific photography guidelines.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There’s no strict dress code for this tour. Casual, comfortable clothing and walking shoes are recommended. Visitors should dress appropriately for the weather and outdoor activities at the Snow Monkey Park and other sites.

Can We Purchase Souvenirs at the Snow Monkey Park?

Yes, there are souvenir shops within the Snow Monkey Park where visitors can purchase a variety of items, such as plush toys, keychains, and snacks. However, the tour does not include time for souvenir shopping at the park.

The Sum Up

This day tour in Nagano offers a unique chance to observe snow monkeys in their natural habitat, explore the historic Zenkoji Temple, and enjoy free sake tastings. With convenient transportation and inclusive entrance fees, it’s an excellent way to experience the cultural and natural wonders of this beautiful region. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, this tour promises an unforgettable experience.